steam
UK: stiːm | US: stiːm
n. 1. The vapor into which water is converted when heated, forming a white mist of minute water droplets in the air.
n. 2. Power or energy derived from steam under pressure, used to operate machinery.
vt. 1. To cook, clean, or treat with steam.
vi. 1. To give off steam or vapor; to rise as steam.
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The word "steam" originates from Old English stēam, meaning "vapor, hot exhalation," likely derived from Proto-Germanic staumaz. It has retained its core meaning of "water vapor" throughout its history, with later extensions to mechanical and industrial uses (e.g., steam engines). The word's simplicity reflects its ancient Germanic roots, with no further morphemic breakdown in modern English.
The kettle whistled as steam poured from its spout.
Steam engines revolutionized transportation in the 19th century.
She prefers to steam vegetables to retain their nutrients.
The bathroom mirror fogged up from the hot steam.
The factory uses steam to power its turbines.